5. Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors
As you can see, there are several types of medications that may cause serotonin syndrome. MAOIs (monoamine oxidase inhibitors) are also on the list of possible causes of serotonin syndrome. These are medications that are used to treat several types of mood disorders. They are also used for the treatment of Parkinson’s disease. MAOIs work by preventing the production of monoamine oxidase. Monoamine oxidase is responsible for breaking down numerous substances as well as neurotransmitters throughout the body and in the brain.
This includes serotonin. The result of using an MAOI is that serotonin is more available to the brain. If this goes on for too long, you may start to see the unwanted and possibly dangerous symptoms of serotonin syndrome. If you are prescribed an MAOI for a mood disorder and start to experience the symptoms of serotonin syndrome, it is important to discuss these issues with your doctor.